After a long and grueling school year you are always excited about summer break. But before you know it, it’s time to buy new school clothes and register for class.The only thing you really look forward to at the end of the summer is reconnecting with friends you didn’t see over summer break. However, it can be hard or a little strange when you haven’t seen your friends in awhile. Things change, they may be upset with you for not staying in touch on your social network, or they made a new best friend, or you may have outgrown the friendship. If you’re feeling nervous about reconnecting with friends or you’re finding it hard to get things to be “like they use to be”, use the tips below to kick-start your friendship again or help you move on.

1. When you see your friend walk up, smile and let them know how excited you are to see them.
   Don’t* Wait for them to come to you, esp if you are the one to blame for losing touch.
2. If you see them hanging out with a new crowd of students, and you would like to be included send them a text message or email letting them know how great it is that they made new friends. This lets them know you aren’t mad at them for having other friends then you, and they will want to introduce you to their new friends.
   Don’t* Walk by and give them dirty looks, or ask them why they are hanging out with those students. Being judgmental will only make them want to forget your friendship altogether.
3. If they are being mean to you, and treating you like they don’t want your friendship anymore they could just be hurt. Give them the space and time to cool off. Tell them you miss them and let them know you want to be friends again when they’re ready.
   Don’t* Call them non-stop, or confront them about it in the hallways. Don’t say mean things to them or gossip about them. That could cause the end of your friendship.
4. Be aware that the friendship could have ran it’s course and know when it’s time to just let it go.
   Don’t* Hang on to the past and give your ex friend the puppy dog look when they walk by you in the hallways. Or beg for them to be your friend again!
5. Look forward to meeting new friends! Your HS is full of students to make friends with, joining a new club or playing a sport are great ways to make friendships.
   Don’t* Become sad or depressed. Life is about meeting new people and sometimes you have to let go of one friend to make room for more.